Fellow jade enthusiasts, I am Li Yuhua. Having been involved in the Hetian jade industry for over thirty years, I have witnessed the ebb and flow of this exquisite stone, and deeply understand the cultural heritage and investment value it embodies. Today, I'd like to discuss some of the latest perspectives in Hetian jade collecting, hoping to offer new insights for your collecting journey.

I. From "White is Supreme" to "Diverse Aesthetics": A Transformation of Eras

There was a time when the concept of "white is supreme" was deeply ingrained in the Hetian jade market. Mutton-fat jade, especially high-white, fine, and lustrous mutton-fat jade, was revered as the ultimate standard, with prices skyrocketing. There was even a phenomenon where "one white covers all flaws." However, with market development and the refinement of collectors' aesthetics, this singular standard is quietly changing.

#### 1. The Value Reassertion of Qingyu (Celadon Jade) and Biyu (Spinach Green Jade):

In the past, Qingyu and Biyu were often undervalued due to their less pure color compared to white jade. But in recent years, high-quality Qingyu and Biyu have become increasingly favored by collectors. For example, Qingyu from Tashkurgan, Xinjiang, boasts a delicate texture and excellent oiliness, with some even reaching the "Qingyu mutton-fat" level. Russian Biyu's "spinach green" and "apple green," with their rich colors and unique charm, are also gradually becoming market darlings. I once saw a 2-kilogram piece of Tashkurgan Qingyu material, whose texture and oiliness surpassed many ordinary white jades, eventually selling for a price significantly higher than comparable white jade. This fully demonstrates the market's recognition of high-quality Qingyu.

#### 2. The Rise of Tangyu (Sugar Jade) and Moyu (Ink Jade):

Tangyu and Moyu, with their unique colors and textures, are also gradually emerging. High-quality Tangyu features a warm and natural "sugar" color that perfectly blends with the white jade sections, creating a unique artistic beauty. Moyu, especially those pieces with concentrated, jet-black ink, are even rarer and more precious. I once collected a Qing Dynasty Moyu brush pot, whose deep ink color, oily texture, and exquisite carving inspired awe every time I held it. The rise of these jade varieties not only enriches the aesthetic scope of Hetian jade but also provides collectors with more choices.

#### 3. The Prominence of "Skin Color" Value in Ziyu (Pebble Jade):

In Ziyu collection, in addition to the jade quality itself, the "skin color" is increasingly valued. In the past, some collectors would even grind off the skin color in pursuit of pure white. But now, naturally formed "splashed gold skin," "date red skin," "autumn pear skin," etc., have become important components of Ziyu's value due to their rarity and aesthetic appeal. A Ziyu piece with superior jade quality and a natural, beautiful skin color often far surpasses the value of a skinless Ziyu of comparable quality. I once met a collector who owned a Ziyu with a natural "treasure basin" skin color; although the jade quality was not top-tier, its unique skin color ultimately led to a high-priced transaction. This indicates that the market's aesthetic appreciation for skin color has evolved from "optional" to "adding icing to the cake" or even "dotting the eyes of the dragon."

II. The "Value Revaluation" and "Practical Guide" to Hetian Jade Collection

In an era of diverse aesthetics, the valuation of Hetian jade also requires re-examination. In addition to traditional standards such as "fineness, luster, whiteness, and stickiness," the following aspects have become particularly important:

#### 1. Rarity and Uniqueness:

Rarity commands value, especially in Hetian jade collection. Whether it's rare origin (e.g., "old mine material" in Russian jade), rare jade variety (e.g., "smoky green jade" in Qinghai material), or rare skin color (e.g., natural "treasure basin" skin), all will add extra value. At the same time, jade materials with unique textures, colors, or forms are more likely to be favored by collectors.

#### 2. Cultural Connotation and Artistic Value:

Hetian jade is not merely a mineral; it is a carrier of Chinese culture. A good jade artifact, beyond the jade quality itself, has its carving craftsmanship, cultural symbolism, and historical legacy all contributing to its profound value. Collecting jade artifacts is not just collecting a stone; it is collecting a culture, an art. I once saw a Ming Dynasty jade carving ornament; although the jade quality was not top-tier, its exquisite carving and rich cultural connotation made its value far exceed that of modern works of comparable jade quality.

#### 3. Market Recognition and Liquidity:

Collecting is for preserving and increasing value, so market recognition and liquidity are also factors to consider. While diverse aesthetics are emerging, some niche jade varieties or special categories may still require time to cultivate market recognition. Choosing categories with high market acceptance and stable trading channels can reduce investment risk.

#### 4. Personal Preference and Aesthetic Taste:

Ultimately, collecting is for personal enjoyment. While pursuing value, it is even more important to focus on personal preference and aesthetic taste. Only genuine affection can bring joy in handling and appreciating. Do not blindly follow trends or be misled by market hype; choosing the jade that truly moves you is the highest realm of collecting.

III. Conclusion and Recommendations

Hetian jade collection is undergoing a profound transformation, moving from the singular "white is supreme" to a diverse "blooming of a hundred flowers." This is both a challenge and an opportunity.

My recommendations are:

  • Broaden your horizons and embrace diversity: Don't be limited to white jade; pay more attention to other jade varieties such as Qingyu, Biyu, Tangyu, and Moyu, and discover their unique values.


  • Study in depth and enhance your appreciation skills: Understand the characteristics of different origins and jade varieties, master basic identification knowledge, and avoid making mistakes.


  • Focus on quality, not blindly pursuing "whiteness": Regardless of the jade variety, the fineness, oiliness, and purity of the jade quality always remain the core value.


  • Pay attention to culture and elevate your taste: When collecting jade artifacts, it is even more important to collect the cultural connotations and artistic value behind them.


  • Invest rationally and within your means: Collecting involves risks, and investment requires caution. Develop a reasonable collection plan based on your financial strength and risk tolerance.


I hope my insights can provide some new ideas and assistance for fellow jade enthusiasts on their future Hetian jade collecting journey. May we all find our unique beauty in the world of jade.